A series of rail disputes has erupted, threatening disruption to passengers over Christmas and leading to a fresh row over fare increases.

London Underground (LU) drivers voted overwhelmingly in favour of striking on Boxing Day in a row over pay, drivers on London Midland will walk out on December 23 in a separate clash over pay and conditions, while workers at Arriva Trains Wales also backed industrial action.

Meanwhile, First Capital Connect was accused of “daylight robbery” after a union said it had discovered some of its fares were going up by as much as 46 per cent in the New Year.

Members of Aslef on LU backed industrial action by 9-1, threatening disruption to soccer fans and Christmas shoppers in the capital.

The union is claiming triple pay and a day off in lieu for its members working on December 26, saying LU is refusing to offer any extra pay.

Aslef general secretary Keith Norman said: “It is painfully obvious to any reasonable person that Boxing Day is not an ordinary working day and therefore it is no surprise that Aslef members have reacted in the way they have.”

The vote was 1,025 in favour of striking, with 127 against, a 9-1 majority in favour of taking action on Boxing Day.